Windows 8 to arrive Oct. 26

Microsoft says its Windows 8 operating system will be released Oct. 26.

The new mobile-phone-oriented operating system will be available as an upgrade for existing computers and will be preinstalled on new computers.

Windows 8 will cost $40 for users who upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows XP. Consumers who purchase a computer that has Windows 7 installed now through Jan. 31, 2013, will be able to upgrade to Windows 8 for $15.